POLICE INCIDENT REPORT
Wednesday 10th February 2010.
Cold caller advice
Essex Police is encouraging people to be aware of companies selling alarms who claim to be working with the police.
Trisha Staerck, crime reduction officer, said: “We encourage residents to be wary if they are cold called at home by someone trying to sell them an alarm system.”
" I would advise people to deal with companies that come under the NACOSS or SSAIB umbrella which are industry approved."
Trisha Staerck, crime reduction officer
“The caller may use high pressure sale techniques, such as suggesting that your home is at serious risk without an alarm, but trading standards advise you not to be pushed into signing up for anything on the spot.
“If you are interested in having an alarm system installed at your home, it is best to shop around first, and get at least three quotes from experts before making up your mind.
“I would advise people to deal with companies that come under the NACOSS or SSAIB umbrella which are industry approved.”
For further advice and assistance contact Consumer Direct on 0845 404 0506 or if you would like home security advice contact your local crime reduction officer.
Swift police survey.
Essex Police are currently carrying out a consumer survey by telephone, through a company called Swift. Should you receive a call from Swift to say that they are conducting a survey, then they are conducting a satisfaction survey and would NOT ask for any personal or bank details.
Shot gun thefts
Various burglaries across the district in the past few months have included the theft of shotguns. If you keep a shot gun in your home or premises, please ensure that your gun-safe is STRONGLY secured to either the wall of floor, onto a solid fabric that cannot be penetrated with a saw or hammer. Ensure that it is kept locked at all times.
We are hearing that gun safe keys are very often being removed from chests of drawers in the master bedroom. Please ensure that you keep your keys either ideally on your person or in another more obscure place, so that burglars are unable to guess where you keep them.
Back door thefts
Many of the recent burglaries we have been suffering across the district have been where houses were entered by the back door. Please consider the security at the rear of your house, especially where back doors are glazed or wooden and in poor condition.
You can buy different kinds of battery operated alarms nowadays which would sound loudly when the door is opened. These are available from most DIY stores now and many cost under £15. If you opt for a battery operated / shed alarm they don’t need to be wired in.
If you see any suspicious or unusual activity around your neighbourhood or have any information which you think might be of help, please call Essex Police on 0300 333 4444.
Many thanks,
Lindsay Baillie
Essex Watch Administrator, Uttlesford.
01376 556 232 / 07837 341 683
Lindsay.Baillie@essex.pnn.police.uk
